New York landlord-tenant laws strongly favor tenants, regulating security deposits, evictions, and habitability while requiring clear lease terms for both parties. Renting offers protections like rent stabilization in NYC, but owning provides equity without eviction risks.
Security Deposits
Landlords limit deposits to one month’s rent, must pay interest on buildings with six or more units, and return them within 14 days of lease end, minus documented damages. Tenants receive itemized deductions; failure prompts double damages recovery.
Eviction Processes
Evictions demand court orders via notices: 14 days for nonpayment, 10-30 days for holdovers or lease breaches, with “good cause” required in NYC unregulated units since 2024. Tenants gain protections against harassment or illegal lockouts.
Rent and Repairs
Rent due dates follow leases with a 5-day grace period; increases over 5% need 30-90 days’ notice based on tenancy length. Landlords ensure habitable units with timely repairs; tenants report issues promptly and cover minor maintenance.
SOURCES
[1](https://innago.com/new-york-landlord-tenant-laws/)…